Sexual abuse coping mechanisms

Child sexual abuse CSA is a physically and emotionally destructive event that, unfortunately, happens often. This form of abuse occurs when a child is used to gratify an older individual. A central theme is that the abuse exploits power over the victim, often to fulfil their need to be powerful at the expense of the child. Sexual abuse happens across all forms of culture, economic status, race, and religion. However, estimation for the frequency of this form of abuse varies widely, and may be due to the unknown number of occurrences of child sexual abuse that are never reported.

After sexual assault, rape, or any unwanted sexual encounter, an individual can experience a myriad of emotions. They range from shock, denial, anxiety, anger, confusion, helplessness, guilt, shame, fear, sadness and many more. Therefore, it is important that the survivor address the ordeal and receive proper healing and support. Without proper help, and individual can spiral into unhealthy behaviors like drinking to manage their thinking and emotions. Alcohol and substance abuse are popular ways to deal with life-altering experiences but relying on alcohol or drugs to cope can be prevented. After surviving a trauma there are still lingering emotions and involuntary physical responses.

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Of course, there are other coping mechanisms that victims can use to channel these negative emotions in a more positive way. For instance, meditation, calm breathing exercises, relaxation exercises, exercise, support groups, counseling, talking through problems, positive religion, and others can all be good ways victims can learn to handle their past abuse in a constructive and self-helping way. What do you call it when the victim is happy ALL the time and jokes about molestation and rape.